Since its quite a costly method, the archive letter is often used to tie a particular firearm to a well-known individual in the past.

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Learn more Colt serial codes could be hard to read if you arent experienced.

While these codes have little impact on firearms performance, theyre one of the best ways to trace the origin of a gun.

T he numbers, prefixes, and suffixes contain information about the weapons history.

But, usually, the problem is that not everyone can understand them.

If you want to know how to read Colt serial numbers, then this article will offer you some tips.

Below are easy steps to take when learning how to read the numbers, along with interesting information about Colts serial rules.

Simply go to Colts homepage and hover your mouse to the Customer Service tab.

Colt Sp 1 Current Values Serial Number Lookup And

Click on Serial Number Lookup and then enter the serial number seen on your Colt.

You should note though, that the database isnt totally complete yet.

And thats why the results of the lookup wont always be accurate yet.

This is since some vintage guns have overlapping serial numbers with other models.

The Reliable Method If you didnt know yet, Colt offers a unique research service to their customers.

On the letter, youll find details of your firearms original specifications and features, plus the delivery address as well.

The archive letter contains important historical facts about your gun which considerably enhances its collectible value.

Custom modifications like finish, barrel, and caliber changes like aftermarket engraving arent included though.

This means that the letter descriptions may also not completely match the current configuration of your gun.

To get the letter, you have to pay a fee, depending on your Colt model.

The fee is typically priced at around 100 for common products.

It can reach up to 300 for vintage variants like the 1851 Navy.

There are other factors like special engraving and specific shipping destination which could raise the final price substantially.